Few Nigerians had careers as varied as Onyeka Onwenu. She sang pop hits, presented documentaries on international television, acted in Nollywood films and ran for political office.
Onwenu was born in 1952 in Obosi, Anambra State. Her father, a politician and educator, died when she was young. She studied in the United States, graduating from Wellesley College and later earning a master’s degree in media studies from the New School in New York.
Journalist
After returning to Nigeria, Onwenu worked as a reporter and presenter for the Nigerian Television Authority. She presented the BBC documentary Nigeria: A Squandering of Riches in the 1980s, which examined corruption and the misuse of oil wealth. The documentary brought her international attention and some controversy at home. Her reporting came during military rule, when criticising those in power carried real risk.
Music
Onwenu became one of Nigeria’s most popular singers in the 1980s. She sang in English, Igbo and other languages, mixing pop, highlife and soul. Her duets with King Sunny Adé, including “Wait for Me”, which encouraged responsible fatherhood and family planning, were widely played.
She was nicknamed the Elegant Stallion for her style and presence.
Her voice
Onwenu’s rich voice and her mix of Igbo and English lyrics made her songs popular across Nigeria. Many of her songs carried messages about unity, family and social responsibility, and they are still played on radio and at events.
Acting
Onwenu also acted, appearing in Nollywood films, often in roles as a mother or matriarch, and was praised for her performances.
Politics and public service
Onwenu was active in politics, contesting for office in Anambra State. She served as chair of the Imo State Council for Arts and Culture and as director general of the National Centre for Women Development in Abuja. She campaigned for women’s rights and against corruption.
Memoir
In 2020, she published a memoir, My Father’s Daughter, reflecting on her life, her father and her career.
Death
Onyeka Onwenu died in July 2024 in Lagos, after collapsing at an event. Tributes poured in from musicians, politicians and fans across Nigeria.
Legacy
Onwenu showed that a woman could excel in music, journalism, film and public service. Younger Nigerian women in entertainment cite her as a pioneer.
She sang, reported, acted and governed. Nigeria rarely sees one person do all four, and none with more grace.
